Youth Day
Youth Day is one of South Africa's 12 official public holidays under the Public Holidays Act (Act 36 of 1994). It falls on the same date every year. Next: 16 June 2027.
Always on 16/06
Next Occurrence
16 June 2027
Wednesday
Youth Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day | Observed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 16 June 2026 | Tuesday | — |
| 2027 Next | 16 June 2027 | Wednesday | — |
Youth Day creates a 6-day long weekend in 2027
13 Jun – 18 Jun · Take 2 leave days to unlock
Planning around Youth Day 2027?
Mid-Year School Break Guide — read the full winter holidays 2027 guide with weather, school terms, and travel tips.
Read the Winter Holidays 2027 guideMaximise your leave around Youth Day 2027
11 Jun – 16 Jun · 2 leave days → 5 days off
Take leave on: 14 Jun, 15 Jun
See full leave planWhat is the history of Youth Day?
Youth Day commemorates the Soweto Uprising of 16 June 1976, when thousands of Black students marched to protest against the mandatory use of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction in schools. Police opened fire on the peaceful protesters, killing Hector Pieterson and many others. The image of a dying Hector Pieterson being carried by a fellow student became an iconic symbol of the struggle against apartheid. The uprising sparked nationwide protests and drew international attention to the brutality of the apartheid regime.
Why do we celebrate Youth Day in South Africa?
Youth Day honours the bravery of young people who stood up against injustice and acknowledges the role of youth in shaping South Africa's future. It's a day to remember those who sacrificed their lives and to inspire young South Africans to be active citizens. Schools often hold special programmes about the history and importance of this day.
How is Youth Day celebrated in South Africa?
- Commemorations at Hector Pieterson Museum
- Educational programmes in schools
- Youth rallies and events
- Cultural performances
- Community service projects
What's Open
Some malls, restaurants, tourist attractions
What's Closed
Government offices, banks, schools
Related Holidays
Frequently Asked Questions
Free things to do on public holidays
No budget required — these are free across South Africa and available year-round.
Public Libraries
Free membership at any municipal library. Most run free holiday programmes for children during school breaks — check your local branch for crafts, storytelling, and reading clubs.
Parks & Nature Reserves
Municipal parks, botanical gardens, and local nature reserves are free across all nine provinces. Bring a picnic and let kids run.
Beaches
Public beaches are free. Most municipal beaches have ablution facilities and lifeguards during peak season. Check local surf reports before heading out.
Hiking & Walking Trails
Thousands of free walking and hiking trails exist in municipal reserves, state forests, and green belts. Most are well-marked and family-friendly.
Museums & Galleries
Many national and provincial museums offer free entry, including the SA Museum (Cape Town), Museum Africa (Joburg), and Natal Museum (Pietermaritzburg). Check ahead for free days.
Sports & Recreation
Municipal sports fields, tennis courts, athletics tracks, and skate parks are generally free to use. Many municipalities also offer free swimming sessions on public holidays.
Planning a trip around Youth Day?
Browse popular SA destinations for June — weather, activities, and what to do.
View School Terms by Province
See how Youth Day falls within the school calendar: